Bruce Springsteen – Born in the U.S.A.

About the song

“Born in the U.S.A.” is a seminal track from Bruce Springsteen’s 1984 album of the same name, and remains one of the most iconic songs in his extensive catalog. Recognized for its powerful and anthemic sound, the song has often been misunderstood. Despite its rousing chorus and upbeat melody, the song offers a stark critique of American society and its treatment of Vietnam War veterans, highlighting the stark contrast between patriotic pride and the harsh realities faced by returning soldiers.

The song’s origins trace back to 1981 when Springsteen initially penned it for a film project. It evolved significantly before its release; early demos were recorded in a more stripped-down, acoustic form during sessions for the *Nebraska* album. However, “Born in the U.S.A.” found its final form in 1982 during the *Electric Nebraska* sessions at Power Station studios. The track features a now-iconic synthesizer riff and a distinctive snare drum sound, crafted with the help of engineer Toby Scott’s innovative techniques. This version, marked by its robust and uplifting arrangement, would eventually become the opening track of the *Born in the U.S.A.* album.

Lyrically, “Born in the U.S.A.” delves into the struggles of a Vietnam veteran disillusioned by the unfulfilled promises of the American Dream. While the chorus’s celebratory tone may seem patriotic, the verses paint a somber picture of economic hardship and alienation. This juxtaposition has led to various interpretations, with some misreading the song as a straightforward patriotic anthem, rather than the complex social commentary it truly is.

The song’s reception and impact were profound. It peaked at No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 5 on the UK Singles Chart. Despite its success, its message was often overlooked, with some political figures mistakenly adopting it as a symbol of American triumph. This misinterpretation extended to the 1984 presidential campaign, where Ronald Reagan and other conservative figures embraced it as an emblem of national pride, unaware of its critical undertones. In response, Springsteen addressed this confusion in his concerts and public statements, emphasizing the song’s critical perspective on American society.

The music video for “Born in the U.S.A.”, directed by John Sayles, effectively complements the song’s themes by juxtaposing footage of Springsteen performing with scenes depicting working-class America, veterans, and industrial imagery. This visual representation reinforces the song’s message of disillusionment and the contrast between the country’s glorified image and the struggles of its citizens.

Live performances of “Born in the U.S.A.” have varied significantly. From its prominent role in Springsteen’s 1984-85 tour to its reimagined acoustic versions during later tours, including the Ghost of Tom Joad Tour and Devils & Dust Tour, the song has been adapted to fit different contexts and moods, showcasing Springsteen’s ability to reinterpret his work and maintain its relevance over time.

Overall, “Born in the U.S.A.” remains a powerful and enduring piece of music, reflecting Bruce Springsteen’s knack for blending catchy melodies with poignant social commentary. Its complex layers continue to provoke thought and discussion, ensuring its place as a significant work in the canon of American rock music.

Video

Lyrics

Born down in a dead man’s town
The first kick I took was when I hit the ground
You end up like a dog that’s been beat too much
Till you spend half your life just covering up

Born in the U.S.A., I was born in the U.S.A.
I was born in the U.S.A., born in the U.S.A.

Got in a little hometown jam
So they put a rifle in my hand
Sent me off to a foreign land
To go and kill the yellow man

Born in the U.S.A.
Come back home to the refinery
Hiring man said “son if it was up to me”
Went down to see my V.A. man
He said “son, don’t you understand”

I had a brother at Khe Sahn
Fighting off the Viet Cong
They’re still there, he’s all gone

He had a woman he loved in Saigon
I got a picture of him in her arms now

Down in the shadow of the penitentiary
Out by the gas fires of the refinery
I’m ten years burning down the road
Nowhere to run ain’t got nowhere to go

Born in the U.S.A., I was born in the U.S.A.
Born in the U.S.A., I’m a long gone daddy in the U.S.A.
Born in the U.S.A., born in the U.S.A.
Born in the U.S.A., I’m a cool rocking daddy in the U.S.A.